Ergonomics is Everyone’s Concern

THURSDAY, JULY 5, 2018
PATRICIA CLAUSEN

When most people hear the word ergonomics, they often think of office environment and equipment, but ergonomics is much more than chairs, computers and keyboards with wrist pads. Ergonomics is the science of fitting the job to the worker, and carries an important role in worker safety and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) prevention.

A little bit about MSD

MSD are injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. They may be caused or aggravated by various hazards or risk factors in the workplace such as high force, awkward/static postures, and repetitive motions. The musculoskeletal system includes: muscles, tendons and tendon sheathes, nerves, bursa, blood vessels, joints/spinal discs, and ligaments.

MSD do not include musculoskeletal injuries or disorders that are the direct result of a fall, struck by or against, caught in or on, vehicle collision, violence, etc.

Seven MSD Prevention Tips:

1. If possible, lower rather than lift

Lowering loads from a higher to a lower level uses gravity as an advantage. This may help to reduce stresses placed on the body.

2. Always use the proper lifting technique

Often, safe lifting training involves teaching the standard ‘Bend at your Knees’ technique. While this technique is effective for many lifting situations, other situations may require a ‘Golfer’s Lift’ or a ‘Two Person Lift’. Ensure everyone is trained on the appropriate techniques and when to use them.

3. Push rather than pull

Pushing provides a mechanical advantage, since an individual’s body weight helps to move the object. Pushing also allows for better body positioning, reducing stresses on the musculoskeletal system.

4. Push or pull rather than carry

Using a cart to push or pull a load reduces stresses placed on the musculoskeletal system from carrying.

5. Work within the ‘power zone’

The ‘power zone’ is typically considered the area between the shoulders and the knees. Doing work within this area maximizes the body’s strength. Heavier objects should be stored in this area so that the body can more effectively handle them. Lighter objects may be able to be stored outside of the power zone.

6. Avoid awkward postures

Joints are strongest and in their most stable position when they are in a neutral position. Work should be designed so that most of it is done with neutral postures. Awkward posture, such as working over the shoulder, increases the risk for MSD.

7. Build adjustability in the job

Having adjustability in the job allows every person to do the work in their most effective posture. It helps to ensure everyone can do work within their power zone, and helps to avoid awkward postures. It also has the advantage of allowing many different people to safely do the same job!

Tools and Resources

PSHSA offers a wide range of services, products and training to help employers create a healthy and safe workplace free from the risk of MSD.

Ministry of Labour provides resources for different work settings on ergonomics and injury prevention.

Occupational injuries to muscles, nerves and tendons (soft tissue) may not be life-ending, but they can certainly be life-altering. Create a safer workplace, and take advantage of these easily accessible resources to reduce MSD risk factors and help prevent workplace injuries.

About the Author

Patricia Clausen is PSHSA’s Director, Prevention – Engagement and Retention (Government, Education and Public Safety). She has over 20 years’ experience in ergonomics, and health & safety in a variety of industries with a particular focus on municipal government. Patricia has a strong skill set in auditing, leading projects and the assessment, review and implementation of effective Health & Safety programs in various work settings. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Engineering, Masters in Business Administration and is a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP).

Public Services Health & Safety Association (PSHSA) works with Ontario's public and broader public sector workers and employers, providing occupational health and safety training, resources and consulting to reduce workplace risks and prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.